Causes of Nasal Congestion and Easy Tips to Alleviate It - Life Health

 Causes of Nasal Congestion and Easy Tips to Alleviate It

Causes of Nasal Congestion - There are many causes of nasal congestion, such as irritation from inhaling air pollution, allergies, sinusitis, or viral infections. To address this issue, various practical and safe methods can be implemented at home, one of which involves using nasal spray.

When exposed to allergies or inhaling polluted air, the membrane lining the nasal passages becomes inflamed. During inflammation, the nose produces mucus to expel any foreign substances or debris. Excessive mucus production is a common factor leading to nasal congestion.

Diverse Causes of Nasal Congestion

As mentioned earlier, the factors causing nasal congestion are diverse. Here is a more detailed explanation:

Common Cold

Coughing and cold symptoms usually occur due to impurities or infections in the upper respiratory tract (ISPA), which includes the nose and throat. Nasal congestion is one of the symptoms. Nasal congestion from a common cold typically resolves within 7–10 days but may persist longer in smokers.

Flu (Influenza)

Nasal congestion can also result from the flu or influenza. This condition occurs when a virus attacks the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. In addition to nasal congestion, the flu induces symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, headaches, and chills. Similar to a regular cold, the flu generally resolves on its own, but it can cause serious complications, especially in infants, pregnant women, or the elderly.

Acute Sinusitis

In acute sinusitis, the tissues inside the nose swell, narrowing the nasal cavity and increasing mucus production. This condition is a common cause of nasal congestion and typically develops following a cold.

Allergic Rhinitis

Another common cause of nasal congestion is allergic rhinitis. This condition occurs when the nose is irritated by allergens such as pollen, dust, or animal dander. Exposure to allergens triggers an increase in mucus production in the nasal cavity, leading to symptoms like sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.

Treating Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion can make daily activities uncomfortable, sometimes even hindering sleep. Here are various methods to address nasal congestion at home:

Pain Relievers

If nasal congestion is accompanied by fever, headaches, or a sore throat, pain relievers can be taken as a first line of defense. Examples of pain relievers include paracetamol and ibuprofen. Over-the-counter, these medications should be used according to the dosage instructions on the packaging, and consumption should be stopped once symptoms subside.

Antihistamines

Medications containing antihistamines or anti-allergy properties can be consumed to alleviate nasal congestion, colds, and sneezing. Usually, these medications may have some side effects, such as drowsiness and dry mouth.

Nasal Spray

Quickly and effectively relieving nasal congestion can be achieved using decongestant nasal sprays. While decongestant medications are available in various forms, nasal spray works faster than oral medications, providing immediate relief. Natural-based nasal sprays can also be used to alleviate cold symptoms, including nasal congestion. One example is a spray containing a combination of saline solution and iota carrageenan (IC).

Carrageenan is a natural polysaccharide with a high molecular weight derived from various species of red seaweed. Iota carrageenan is a specific form of carrageenan with antiviral effects against some enveloped viruses and rhinovirus.

Typically, the dosage for adult nasal spray is one spray in each nostril three times a day. For children, the specific dosage is 2–3 sprays in each nostril three times a day.

Note: Decongestant nasal spray use should not exceed three consecutive days, as prolonged use may worsen nasal congestion. Additionally, this type of medication is not recommended for children under six years old.

In addition to medications, there are several measures that can be taken to help alleviate nasal congestion:

• Increase fluid intake, especially water, warm lemon water, or clear broth.
• Ensure an adequate amount of rest.
• Inhale warm steam.
• Take a warm bath.
• Wash your face with a warm towel.
• Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools.

 

These are some key points to be aware of regarding the causes of nasal congestion and effective ways to address it. If the condition does not improve or worsens, it is advisable to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment. 

For the summary you can see the table below:

Nasal Congestion Causes

Cause	Details
Common Cold	Nasal congestion often occurs with coughs and colds due to contaminants or infections in the upper respiratory tract (URTI), namely the nose and throat. It typically resolves within 7-10 days but may last longer in smokers.
Flu (Influenza)	Nasal congestion can result from the flu or influenza. This condition occurs when viruses attack the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. In addition to nasal congestion, flu symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headaches, chills, and sweating. While the flu generally resolves on its own, it can lead to serious complications, especially in infants, pregnant women, or the elderly.
Acute Sinusitis	In acute sinusitis, the tissues inside the nose become swollen, narrowing the nasal cavity and increasing mucus production. This swelling is a common cause of nasal congestion. Acute sinusitis typically develops following a cold or flu.
Rhinitis Allergies	Another common cause of nasal congestion is allergic rhinitis. This condition occurs when the nose is irritated by allergens such as pollen, dust, or animal dander. Exposure to allergens triggers an increase in mucus production in the nasal cavity, leading to sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.

 

Home Remedies and Treatments

Treatment	Details
Pain Relievers	If nasal congestion is accompanied by fever, headaches, or a sore throat, over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used. Follow the recommended dosage on the packaging and discontinue use once symptoms improve.
Antihistamines	Antihistamine or anti-allergy medications can help alleviate nasal congestion, cold symptoms, and sneezing. However, these medications may have side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth.
Nasal Spray	Decongestant nasal sprays are a fast and effective way to relieve nasal congestion. They work more quickly than oral medications, providing immediate relief. Natural-based nasal sprays, containing a combination of saline solution and iota carrageenan (IC), can also be used to alleviate cold symptoms, including nasal congestion.

 

 

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